The census counts our population and households, providing the basis for distributing more than $675 billion in federal funds annually to support states, counties and communities’ vital programs — impacting housing, education, transportation, employment, health care, public policy, and the programs we offer you and your neighbors. 

Federal law protects your census responses. Your answers can only be used to produce statistics. By law the census cannot share your information with immigration enforcement agencies, law enforcement agencies, or allow it to be used to determine your eligibility for government benefits.

The success of the census — and the benefits to your community — depends on everyone’s participation.

Businesses use census data to decide where to build factories, offices and stores, and this creates jobs. Developers use the census to build new homes and revitalize old neighborhoods. Local governments use the census for public safety and emergency preparedness. Residents use the census to support community initiatives involving legislation, quality-of-life and consumer advocacy.